Artitaya Golf & Resort Kanchanaburi (former Nichigo Golf Resort & Country Club)

The Artitaya Golf & Resort Kanchanaburi (former Nichigo Golf Resort & Country Club) sits along the River Kwai Yai about 30 minutes north of the provincial capital. Surrounding jungle-clad, craggy hills provide a spectacular backdrop for the course, which is characterized by holes lined with tall, mature trees, and plenty of water hazards in the form of small lakes.

The course boasts a challenging 27-holes laid out in rural peace and spaciousness comprised of the Lake, River, and Mountain Courses. The River Course contains two distinctive bridges. At the par-3 3rd, an ivy-covered, jungle-style 'rope' bridge connects the tee-box across a water hazard to the green below. Behind the par-4 6th green there is a Kodak moment at the replica of the “Bridge over the River Kwai.” Only on the outside of the dog-leg on the par-5 4th does the famous river comes into view. 

The Lake Course is so called based on the par-4 3rd hole wrapping itself around a small lake, and the same lake providing a watery tee-to-green shot at the par-3 4th. After that, the Lake Course becomes a classic example of a slightly undulating, wooded parkland layout, without too much water coming back into play. The more undulating Mountain Course requires finesse as it wends its way over sloping terrain, flanked at times by a snaking creek and offering some of the most spectacular views of the limestone hills. 

Once regarded as one of the go-to play courses in the River Kwai area, Artitaya Golf & Resort has, unfortunately, seen better days. Conditions, facilities, and service are adequate, but nothing to write home about. The clubhouse and restaurant are quite spartan, so it is best to buy your supplies and plan on eating elsewhere after your round.

Bring your smartphone and make the most of the surrounding sights and course monuments, without being too critical of the golf course itself. After all, Artitaya Golf & Resort Kanchanaburi is still a fun play for those golfing in Kanchanaburi.